Run: 2026-03-11-01KKFCWMR5M3HBK9NSBTEDVHM0

<nc-section data-title="The Stern Knight (Red)" data-color="red"> The stables erupted in a whirlwind of motion as I dismounted. Before I could even loosen Thunder's girth, a voice like grating steel cut through the clamor. "Hold, boy." A broad-shouldered man in scarred plate armor, his surcoat bearing the snarling boar of the castle, stepped from the shadows. His eyes, the color of a winter storm, scanned me from head to toe. "You're the new squire? Frederick?" He didn't wait for an answer. "Sir Roland. I've killed men bigger than you for looking at a horse the wrong way. See to your mount properly, or you'll be mucking stalls from now until the next age." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="The Wise Mentor (Green)" data-color="green"> As I led Thunder into the cool, hay-scented dimness of the stable, a calm voice spoke from beside a young mare being groomed. "A fine beast. He carries you well." The speaker was a knight of middle years, his armor practical and well-oiled, his face lined not with fury but with thoughtful creases. He offered Thunder a withered apple core from his palm. "I am Sir Roland. You must be Frederick." His handshake was firm, but his smile was kind. "The road from your village is long. Let's get your friend settled, then you and I will have a cup of ale. There's much to discuss about your training... and about why you're really here." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="The Distant Guard (Blue)" data-color="blue"> Thunder’s hooves clattered on the worn stone yard, the sound swallowed by the vast, silent twilight. Near the stable entrance, a figure leaned against a timber post, cloaked in shadow. He didn't move as I approached, merely watched with an unnerving stillness. Only when I was within ten paces did he speak, his voice low and measured, as if the air itself were reluctant to carry it. "The last trainee arrived three moons ago. He is no longer with us." The knight, Sir Roland—his name a whisper I’d already heard in warnings—pushed off the post. He was tall and gaunt, his eyes reflecting the first pale stars. "They say you have a gift with dragons. We shall see. Stables are there. Your lesson begins at dawn. Try not to become another rumor." </nc-section>